Surgical Procedures
Hand surgery is broadly categorised based on the underlying condition. The first category involves the treatment of acute injuries following work-related, car and domestic accidents. The second focuses on surgical management of chronic hand conditions. Trauma-related hand surgery may include:
- Repair of tendons, nerves, and blood vessels
- Skin flaps and grafts
- Amputation procedures, when necessary
For chronic hand conditions, surgical treatment is tailored to the specific disorder.
Common Chronic Hand Conditions Requiring Surgery
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome results from compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing symptoms such as numbness, pain and tingling, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Symptoms often worsen at night, and in advanced cases, muscle atrophy in the palm may occur.
The surgical procedure involves releasing the transverse carpal ligament to relieve nerve pressure. This is a 30-minute operation, performed under local anaesthesia, with patients typically returning to manual work within two weeks.
Dupuytren’s Disease
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition where thickening of the palmar fascia gradually causes finger flexion, leading to significant hand dysfunction. It is more common in men and can affect one or both hands. Risk factors include diabetes, alcoholism, epilepsy, and genetic predisposition.
Treatment is surgical, involving the excision of the affected fascia under regional anaesthesia. Postoperative physiotherapy is essential for restoring hand mobility.
Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)
Tendons in the fingers pass through a sheath-like tunnel. In stenosing tenosynovitis, inflammation causes restricted movement, leading to difficulty in flexion and extension. This condition may affect any finger, including the thumb (trigger thumb).
Conservative treatments often lead to recurrence. Surgical treatment involves releasing the affected sheath, a procedure performed under local anaesthesia in 30-60 minutes. Recovery is rapid, and most patients resume normal activities shortly after surgery.
Surgical Planning & Recovery
Surgical incisions for hand procedures are small and strategically placed to minimise visibility. Proper postoperative care and specialised scar treatments further enhance healing. Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery:
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS?
What You Need to Know
How safe is hand surgery?
Modern surgical techniques are highly safe and effective, with minimal risks. Your surgeon will discuss preventive measures for possible complications.
Will I experience pain after surgery?
Postoperative pain is usually mild and can be managed with simple painkillers. More extensive procedures may require stronger analgesia.
When can I return to work?
This depends on the procedure and the nature of your job. Patients with light duties can return within days, while those in manual labour may require several weeks or months.
Will I need physiotherapy after surgery?
In many cases, physiotherapy is essential for restoring mobility and strength in the hand.
Is there a chance of recurrence after surgery?
Some conditions, such as trigger finger, have a low but existing recurrence risk. Proper post-surgical care helps minimise this possibility.
